The Chinese representation of cosmic elements as graphic symbols.

In Chinese cosmology, cosmic elements have been deified and assigned life-forms. Air, representing ultrasonic energy as a celestial entity, became bird-god, Red-bird. Water acquired Dragon as its representative and Fire had Tiger as its graphic symbol. Earth, as body, was fertile and long-lasting. It was symbolized as Tortoise, known to be long-lived. Its soul became Serpent, long enough to be powerful as Cosmic soul. Serpent-Tortoise, as Body-Soul, became the god Black-Warrior in charge of Earth.